204: 5 year anniversary episode: Kirk’s Story: Early PSA Testing, Surgery at 59, and Getting Back to Life (Fast!)

In this Episode which marks the 5th anniversary of the Penis Project Podcast, Kate and Melissa, practitioners from Restorative Health Clinic talk to Kirk (59), who shares his very recent journey with prostate cancer — from vigilant PSA screening due to a strong family history, through biopsy and robotic prostatectomy(Gleason 9), to an unusually swift return of continence and erections (yes, really… at 5 weeks!). We chat about why a good GP relationship matters, common myths (no, PSA screening is not a finger-up-the-bum), and practical rehab steps that set you up for the best outcome. We also touch on the challenges recent Medicare telehealth changes pose for rural men and why community conversations save lives.

Key Takeaways:

• PSA screening saves lives: It’s a blood test. Many men still believe screening means a rectal exam — that misconception stops blokes from testing.

• Early and regular checks matter, especially with family history. Kirk and his GP were “on it,” which likely changed his trajectory.

• Rehab starts before surgery: Pre-op pelvic floor coaching and early, structured penile rehab support faster continence and sexual recovery.

• Expectations matter: Being clear about how important sex is to you helps the team tailor a plan (medications, devices, or injections) so intimacy continues post-treatment.

• Modern prostate cancer care is not what it was 20 years ago — minimally invasive surgery, targeted radiation, and better side-effect profiles.

Episode Highlights

• Family history matters: Kirk, a 59-year-old anaesthetist, always knew prostate cancer was a “when, not if.” Vigilant PSA screening caught it early.

• PSA test = blood test: Many men still mistakenly think screening means a rectal exam — this myth stops blokes from testing.

• Gleason upgrade: Biopsy showed 7, but post-surgery pathology was 9 — reinforcing why early surgery was lifesaving.

• GPs are gold: A trusted GP relationship ensures timely checks and continuity of care.

• Rehab starts before surgery: Pelvic floor exercises and penile rehab education gave Kirk the best start.

• Fast recovery: At 5 weeks post-op, Kirk is dry, pad-free, and already regaining erectile function with support strategies.

• Community conversations: Kirk shared his diagnosis with ice-hockey teammates — most had no idea PSA was just a blood test.

• Rural barriers: Medicare telehealth changes risk limiting access for country men as of November 1st 2025 — highlighting the importance of policy that supports remote care.

• Positive outlook: Kirk’s story proves recovery can be quicker than many expect, and modern treatments offer far better outcomes than in the past.

• Take-home message: Don’t wait for symptoms — get your PSA blood test done and talk to your mates about it.

Shareable quotes

• “Good news — PSA screening is a blood test. That’s it.”

• “Pre-hab matters: start pelvic floor and penile rehab before surgery.”

• “Sex after prostate cancer is absolutely possible — the toolkit is bigger and better than ever.”

• “Men will talk footy all day — let’s talk our health the same way.”

Resources & Links:

• Book a telehealth consult with our sexual health nurse practitioners at Restorative Health Clinic

• For more information check out our websites www.rshealth.com.au , www.makehardeasy.com.au and www.melissahadleybarrett.com

Listen & Subscribe

• If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast! Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations to light. Search for The Penis Project Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast app.

Connect With Us

We love hearing from real people, navigating penile health. If you’d like to share your journey or ask a question, get in touch.

Email: admin@rshealth.com.au

Websites:

https://rshealth.com.au/ All genders

https://makehardeasy.com.au

https://melissahadleybarrett.com

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TEDX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHj1YTmLoA